Being a native of the South has its perks. We get to make up words, such as y'all and ain't, dress up in lace and boots, but over all, we get to create dishes straight from Cajun Heaven's Oven. Y'all know the exact dishes I am referring to; a mouth watering pot of gumbo, succulent crawfish bathed in Tony's, and last but not least, the dish that no one can ever get enough of: fried chicken. Growing up in an African-American home, we had fried chicken at least seven times a week with a nice side dish and cold Kool-Aid. There was nothing better than coming home and being slapped in the face with the aroma of a crispy piece of chicken. Over the years of being slapped, this bonafied dish has taught me so many things about life.
1. Always have the grease
In life, you will be given so many obstacles and opportunities to fulfill your heart's desire of success, love and happiness. With this you must remember to always be prepared. Just as you cannot fry a delicious piece of chicken without grease, you cannot reach your full potential without equipping yourself with a great support system, an education and experiences. And everyone knows you cannot just use any kind of grease, so make sure you're finding the best jewels and ridding yourself of worthless engagements.
2. Don't stand to close to the heat
Growing up, have you ever been popped by the grease while frying some chicken or fries? Then the first thing your mom would say is, "I bet you won't do it again." This same principle can apply to life. Too often we get too close to negative people and surroundings that can be horrible for our lives. But over and over again we find ourselves back in the same situations with hurt feelings and asking God to save us. It's time to take your moms advice and keep away from the heat a/k/a the negativity.
3. Don't try to steal a piece
As the scent of the chicken frying creeps into your nose, you stomach begins to beg you to satisfy it's dream of digesting the goodness and you can't help but make your way to the kitchen to snag a little taste. Some of us can find ourselves being the same way in life. We see something we want and we go after it with full force, instead of being patient and waiting for the right moment that the opportunity would best benefit us. We all can relate to grabbing chicken that is too hot and while it was completely done, it was not ready for consumption. We can apply to life and truly learn that patience is a virtue.
4. Every person likes a different part of the chicken (with or without the skin)
Have you ever ordered chicken and been specific with the exact piece you would like? How often do you call your friend weird because he or she does or does not like the skin or prefer white over dark meat? In today's life, there are so many different opinions about so many different topics. And most times, if someone does not agree with you, you may find yourself getting upset, but we must simply learn that people are different. No matter how much you may try to convince someone that the piece of chicken you love is better, they'll always go with what they love and feel comfortable with.
5. Always have a side dish
Nothing goes better with nicely fried chicken than a well prepared side dish. So often we get caught up in the duties and schedules in life that we forget to enjoy it. Find something, besides your main career or job, that brings you pure happiness. This "side dish" could be a hobby or task that you simply enjoy. Having one is sort of like a stress reliever and you look forward to engaging in it. Just as you would enjoy engaging in some mac and cheese after indulging in your chicken. There's nothing more heavenly than doing something you truly love.
